Scientific Analysis of Jade Artifacts From First‐Generation Haihun Marquis Tomb of the Western Han Dynasty in Nanchang, Jiangxi, China

ABSTRACT

This research employs multiple analytical techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (LA‐ICP‐MS) to characterize jade artifacts excavated in the inner coffins of Liu He, the first‐generation Haihun Marquis of the Western Han Dynasty. Microscopic magnification observation reveals that the jade artifacts lack graphite inclusions, exhibit a dense and tough structure with jagged fractures, and closely resemble high‐quality nephrite of Xinjiang. Raman spectroscopy confirms tremolite as the primary mineral phase. LA‐ICP‐MS data indicate major chemical components of SiO ₂ (58.10%–60.46%), MgO (24.09%–27.36%), CaO (12.39%–16.45%), and FeO (0.36%–1.80%), classifying the jades as tremolite–actinolite series. Trace element analysis identifies two distinct sources: Eastern Xinjiang and Northwestern Gansu. These findings demonstrate that Xinjiang nephrite entered the central plains and became a predominant material for empire jade artifacts during the middle to late Western Han Dynasty. As the most artifact‐rich tomb of a marquis in the Western Han Dynasty discovered to date, the systematic study of the jade artifacts from the Marquis of Haihun's tomb provides crucial empirical evidence for understanding the jade ritual system in noble burials, the resource allocation system of Northwest jade, and the early history of mineral development. The multidimensional provenance‐tracing methods employed offer a new perspective for investigating pre–Silk Road material exchange dynamics between the Central Plains and the northwest China, with particular reference to the emerging nephrite trade axis along the Hexi Corridor.